Plum compote

Plum compote – a summer delicacy

Have you ever thought about how wonderful preserved plums can be, turning into the best friends of your winter desserts? Plum compote is a simple yet flavorful recipe that will bring back memories of warm summer days even in the coldest months. Let's embark on this delicious compote-making adventure together, which will not only delight your taste buds but also add a touch of nostalgia to your pantry.

Total preparation time: 2 hours (including cooling time)
Cooking time: 30-45 minutes
Number of servings: 4 jars of 720-800 g

Ingredients:
- 1 kg plums (choose ripe but firm plums, without spots or signs of damage)
- 5 tablespoons of sugar (about 100 g for each jar)
- a pinch of preservative (optional, but recommended to maintain freshness)
- water (enough to fill the jars)

Helpful tips about ingredients:
Plums are fruits rich in vitamins and antioxidants, and plum compote is not only delicious but also offers nutritional benefits. They contain fiber, which aids digestion, and vitamin K, essential for bone health. Choose plums with smooth skin and firm flesh to ensure your compote has a pleasant texture.

Steps to achieve perfect compote:

Step 1: Preparing the plums
Wash the plums under a stream of cold water, then cut them in half and remove the pits. If you prefer a compote with whole plums, make sure they are smaller in size so they fit in the jars. Once done, let the plums soak in cold water for about 2 hours. This step is essential to ensure the fruits retain their shape and do not spoil during the preservation process.

Step 2: Jarring the compote
After the plums have soaked, prepare clean 720-800 g jars. Place the plum halves in the jars, leaving enough room for sugar and water. Add 4-5 tablespoons of sugar (about 80-100 g) on top of the plums and a pinch of preservative if you choose to use it. The preservative helps extend the shelf life of the compote, but it is not mandatory.

Step 3: Filling with water
Fill the jars with water, leaving about 1 cm of space at the top. This will allow for the expansion of the liquid during cooking.

Step 4: Preparing for cooking
Place the jars in a large pot, on the bottom of which you have placed a clean towel. This towel will help prevent the jars from clinking during boiling. Cover the jars with another towel to protect them from the hot steam and to keep the heat inside the pot.

Step 5: Boiling the compote
Put the pot with the jars in the oven at a temperature of 160-180 °C for 30-45 minutes. It is essential to monitor the process and ensure that the sugar dissolves completely. When the compote becomes clear and the jars are well sealed, you are ready to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Step 6: Cooling and storing
After the jars have been in the oven for 30-45 minutes, carefully remove them and let them cool to room temperature. Once completely cooled, label them with the date and contents, then store them in a cool, dark place.

Serving suggestions:
Plum compote is delicious served plain, but it can also be the secret ingredient in fantastic desserts. Use it as a filling for cakes, tarts, or serve it alongside Greek yogurt for a healthy and hearty breakfast. You can also try adding it to smoothies or cocktails for a touch of sweetness.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use plums from other varieties?
Yes, use plums from various varieties, but make sure they are ripe and firm to achieve the best compote.

2. What type of sugar can I use?
You can use white sugar, brown sugar, or even honey, but the quantity may vary, so adjust according to your personal preferences.

3. Can I omit the preservative?
Yes, you can omit it, but make sure the jars are well sealed and consume them within a shorter period.

Customized version:
For a uniquely flavored plum compote, you can add a cinnamon stick or a few cardamom pods to the jar before filling it with water. These spices will add an exotic note and an irresistible aroma.

Nutrition:
A jar of plum compote (approximately 250 g) contains about 150-180 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used. Plums are rich in vitamins and minerals, and consuming compote can help with digestion and maintaining heart health.

Plum compote is a traditional recipe that has been prepared for generations. Easy to make and with accessible ingredients, it is a wonderful way to preserve the taste of summer for the colder days. So, dress for adventure, gather the ingredients, and enjoy a delicious plum compote that will delight the whole family!